5 things to know about Middletown’s new police chief

David Birk, a 22-year veteran on the Middletown police force, recently was named its police chief. NICK GRAHAM/STAFF

David Birk, a 22-year veteran on the Middletown police force, recently was named its police chief. NICK GRAHAM/STAFF

Here are five things to know about David Birk, who recently was named Middletown’s new police chief, replacing Rodney Muterspaw, who retired:

Police work is in his blood

His great-grandfather was a sheriff in Rapids, Wisconsin.

Law enforcement history

He earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and urban affairs from Wright State University, graduated from the Criminal Justice Training Academy at Sinclair Community College and graduated with honors from the Southern Police Institute at the University of Louisville. He was hired as a patrol officer in 1997 and moved up the ranks as a field training officer, special operations detective, sergeant, lieutenant and most recently as major and deputy chief.

First things first

Birk said he wants to complete his command staff. That means naming a major among the five candidates who are sergeants. They are: Eric Crank, Cris Kelly, Earl Nelson, Steve Ream and Malcom Tipton.

Family affair

David and his wife, Kila, fell in love in high school and have been married for 22 years. They have three children: Nathan, Maegan and Paityn.

Go Pack Go

Birk, a native of Wisconsin, still follows his favorite team, the Green Bay Packers. His uncle has season tickets and Birk attends every opening game.

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